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YMCA OF TOPEKA TO HOST NATIONAL YOUTH OUTDOOR PROGRAM

Youth introduced to archery, firearm safety, trapper education, conservation programsTOPEKA -- The YMCA of Topeka will host a Trailblazer Adventure Day on April 25 at Camp Hammond in Berryton. Trailblazer Adventure, a program of the U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation (USSAF), is designed to introduce families to outdoor activities and promote an outdoor lifestyle. Hundreds of youth and their families are expected to participate in the event.

“This event will give young people the chance to experience a variety of outdoor activities, including archery, firearm safety, trapper education, and conservation education programs,” said Derrek Shively, USSAF director of education.

The USSAF Trailblazer Adventure Program has been honored with the Take Pride in America award by the Department of Interior for its leadership in recruiting youth and families to hunting and fishing and for teaching them about outdoor activities and conservation. The USSAF is one of the Take Pride in America Charter Partners, which work to improve public lands, historic sites, and other recreation areas.

Trailblazer is also endorsed by the National Shooting Sports Foundation’s (NSSF) Step Outside Program, and NSSF is a major sponsor. Local groups involved in the program include the YMCA of Topeka and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks. Other groups providing expertise include the National Wild Turkey Federation, Ducks Unlimited, Kansas Fur Harvesters Association, Kansas Hunter Education Instructors Association, Kansas Hunting Dog Club, Bowfishing Association of America- Kansas, and Kansas Hawking Club. Youth-oriented partners include Boy Scouts of America, Girl Scouts of the USA, Campfire USA, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boys and Girls Club, Girls Incorporated, and YMCA.

For more information about the Trailblazer Adventure program and its numerous sponsors, email trailblazer@ussportsmen.org or go online to www.trailblazeradventure.org.-30-